If you are searching for a dish that balances vibrant flavors and comforting textures, the Sweet and Savory Pineapple Chicken and Rice Recipe is an absolute must-try. This delightful combination brings together tender chicken pieces simmered in a luscious sauce bursting with the tangy sweetness of pineapple and the deep umami of soy sauce, all served atop fluffy rice. It’s a celebration of contrasts—sweet meets savory, soft meets crisp—in every tasty bite, making it a perfect weeknight meal or a crowd-pleaser for gatherings.

Sweet and Savory Pineapple Chicken and Rice Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Sweet and Savory Pineapple Chicken and Rice Recipe lies in its straightforward yet impactful ingredients. Each component plays its unique role, whether it’s the juicy pineapple adding a refreshing twist or the vegetables lending lovely color and crunch. Together, they make a dish that’s both nourishing and exciting to the palate.

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Cut into bite-sized pieces for quick and even cooking.

1 cup fresh pineapple chunks: Provides natural sweetness and a tropical flair; canned works just as well in a pinch.
1 cup low-sodium chicken broth: Adds moisture and depth to the sauce without overpowering the flavors.

1/2 cup soy sauce: The salty backbone that enhances the savory notes throughout the dish.
1/4 cup brown sugar: Balances the saltiness with caramelized sweetness for richness.

1 tablespoon cornstarch: Acts as a thickener to give the sauce a luscious, glossy finish.
3 tablespoons vegetable oil: Divided usage to properly sauté veggies and sear the chicken evenly.
1 medium bell pepper: Sliced, adds vibrant color and a slightly sweet crunch.

1 small onion: Chopped, brings a subtle sweetness and aromatic base.
2 cloves garlic: Minced, infuses the dish with depth and a hint of warmth.
2 cups cooked white rice: The perfect canvas to soak up that irresistible sauce.

2 green onions: Sliced thinly for a fresh, peppery garnish.
Salt and pepper: To taste, essential for seasoning and bringing all elements together.

How to Make Sweet and Savory Pineapple Chicken and Rice Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce Mixture

Start by blending the sweet and savory foundation of this dish: mix the soy sauce, brown sugar, and cornstarch in a small bowl until smooth. This simple combination will thicken beautifully and coat every bite of chicken and pineapple with rich flavor, so don’t rush this step.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Toss in the chopped onion and sliced bell pepper, letting them soften just enough to release their natural sweetness while still retaining a bit of crunch. This step lifts the dish’s texture and keeps colors bright and inviting.

Step 3: Add Garlic for Aroma

Next, add the minced garlic and stir continuously for about a minute. This quick sauté infuses the oil with aromatic warmth that will elevate the entire dish, so be careful not to let it burn—it’s all about gentle flavor layering.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

Push the vegetables to one side of the skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil, and place the chicken pieces in the center. Season with salt and pepper, then cook for 6 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally until every piece is nicely browned and cooked through. The searing locks in juices, ensuring tender and flavorful bites.

Step 5: Combine Pineapple and Sauce

With the chicken perfectly cooked, add those vibrant pineapple chunks right into the skillet. Pour in your prepared sauce mixture, stirring gently to coat chicken and pineapple evenly. Let it simmer for 5 to 7 minutes so the sauce thickens and the flavors marry. This glazy finish is what makes this Sweet and Savory Pineapple Chicken and Rice Recipe truly unforgettable.

Step 6: Prepare the Rice and Serve

While your main dish simmers, cook the rice according to package instructions to achieve fluffy, tender grains. Spoon the saucy pineapple chicken on top of a bed of rice, garnishing with fresh green onions for a pop of color and a gentle bite. Serve immediately to enjoy the full spectrum of textures and tastes at their peak.

How to Serve Sweet and Savory Pineapple Chicken and Rice Recipe

Garnishes

Freshly sliced green onions add a bright, slightly sharp contrast that complements the dish’s sweet-savory balance perfectly. If you want an extra burst, consider sprinkling toasted sesame seeds or even a few chopped fresh cilantro leaves for a herby twist.

Side Dishes

This dish shines on its own but pairing it with a crisp Asian-style cucumber salad or a simple stir-fried green vegetable like bok choy or snap peas can round out the meal beautifully. The freshness and crunch of these sides provide a delightful counterpoint to the rich, saucy chicken and rice.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun family-style presentation, serve the pineapple chicken and rice in a hollowed-out pineapple bowl—this adds a tropical flair and makes the meal feel extra special. Alternatively, try plating it over coconut rice for an indulgent, subtly sweet twist that echoes the pineapple’s tropical notes.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let your leftovers cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Stored properly in the refrigerator, the Sweet and Savory Pineapple Chicken and Rice Recipe will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it perfect for quick lunches or dinners later in the week.

Freezing

This dish freezes well, but it’s best to separate the rice from the chicken and pineapple sauce before freezing. Store each in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator to maintain optimal texture and flavor integrity.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure the sauce is heated evenly. Adding a splash of water or broth can help loosen the sauce and revive the tenderness of the chicken and rice.

FAQs

Can I use canned pineapple instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Canned pineapple works just as well and adds a lovely sweetness. Just be sure to drain it well to avoid adding extra liquid to the sauce.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari and check that your chicken broth is gluten-free to keep this Sweet and Savory Pineapple Chicken and Rice Recipe safe for gluten-sensitive diets.

What type of rice works best?

Long-grain white rice is ideal because it stays fluffy and separate, providing the perfect texture contrast. Feel free to substitute jasmine rice for an aromatic touch.

Can I substitute chicken breast with another protein?

Definitely! This recipe is versatile; try using boneless pork, tofu, or shrimp for different takes that all benefit from the sweet and savory sauce.

How spicy is this dish?

As written, it’s mild and accessible to all taste buds. If you love heat, add a pinch of red chili flakes or a splash of sriracha while cooking the sauce for a spicy kick.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly joyful about a dish that brings together sweet and savory elements so harmoniously, and this Sweet and Savory Pineapple Chicken and Rice Recipe does just that. It’s approachable, packed with flavor, and bound to become a favorite in your home just as it has in mine. Don’t wait—grab your ingredients and enjoy the comforting yet exciting flavors that make every mealtime a celebration.

Sweet and Savory Pineapple Chicken and Rice Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 23 reviews

Author: Noah
Total Time: 30 minutes

Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Halal

Print Recipe

Description

This Sweet and Savory Pineapple Chicken and Rice recipe features tender, bite-sized chicken pieces cooked with fresh pineapple, vibrant bell peppers, and a flavorful soy-brown sugar sauce. Served over fluffy white rice and garnished with green onions, this dish offers a perfect balance of sweet, salty, and tangy flavors that’s easy to prepare and perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.

Instructions

Prepare the sauce: In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, brown sugar, and cornstarch until the mixture is well combined and smooth. Set aside.
Sauté vegetables: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and sliced bell pepper, cooking for 3-4 minutes until they begin to soften.

Add garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, ensuring to stir constantly to prevent it from burning.
Cook chicken: Push the vegetables to the side of the skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil to the center, and add the chicken pieces. Season with salt and pepper. Cook the chicken for 6-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until browned and fully cooked through.
Add pineapple and sauce: Once the chicken is cooked, add the pineapple chunks to the skillet. Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken and pineapple, stirring to combine everything evenly. Continue cooking for another 5-7 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the chicken nicely.

Prepare rice: While the chicken and sauce cook, prepare 2 cups of cooked white rice according to package instructions or your preferred method.
Serve: Spoon the sweet and savory chicken mixture over a bed of fluffy white rice on each plate.
Garnish and enjoy: Sprinkle the sliced green onions on top as garnish and serve immediately for best flavor.

Notes

Fresh pineapple adds a brighter taste, but canned pineapple works well too—drain it to reduce extra syrup.
If you prefer a gluten-free option, substitute tamari for soy sauce.
Adjust brown sugar to taste for more or less sweetness.

You can replace white rice with brown rice or cauliflower rice for a different texture or lower carb option.
To make this recipe spicier, add red pepper flakes or a diced chili when cooking garlic.
Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat nicely.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Course

Method: Sautéing
Cuisine: Asian-inspired

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving (about 1 cup chicken mixture with 1/2 cup cooked rice)

Calories: 400 kcal
Sugar: 12 g
Sodium: 700 mg

Fat: 12 g
Saturated Fat: 2 g
Unsaturated Fat: 8 g

Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 45 g
Fiber: 2 g

Protein: 28 g
Cholesterol: 75 mg

Keywords: pineapple chicken, sweet and savory chicken, chicken and rice, easy chicken recipe, weeknight dinner, Asian chicken stir-fry